Birchall brothers take third World Sidecar crown

Ben and Tom Birchall have bagged their third World Sidecar crown with a decisive win in Croatia which saw them add to their 2009 and 2016 trophies.

The Mansfield duo won the opening race by more than ten seconds ahead of John Holden and Mark Wilkes to take the title, meaning the second race was one to enjoy.

tThere was a dramatic change of events prior to the start of the 18 lap Gold race on Sunday when spots of rain began to fall leaving the sidecar crews with the dilemma of tyre choice.

As the teams set off on the warm up lap Ben and Tom slid out of control on the exit to the first corner which threw Tom off the machine which turned on its side as it slid down the track. The reason for this was a rear tyre puncture and although the two brothers were unhurt the fairing was damaged and they were forced to sit out the race.

“Tom and I are elated to be crowned world champions; we have had a fantastic season in the World Series this year and can’t thank everyone involved enough. Without our sponsors, friends and family we would have been unable to achieve this,” said Ben.

“The decision to go to the 600cc class early has certainly paid off for us and it’s proved the 600cc engine is the perfect choice. The decision by the FIM to make the championship 600cc was correct and the best way forward for our sport. We now look forward to returning home and bringing another world championship back to Mansfield.”